The best MTB trails around Medicine Lake
5.0
(10)
618
riders
28
rides
Mountain biking around Medicine Lake offers access to an extensive network of trails within a metropolitan area. The region features a blend of urban greenways, natural lakefronts, and wooded areas, providing diverse terrain for cyclists. Trails often follow former railroad corridors, connecting various parks and offering scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. Some sections include rolling hills, adding dynamic elements to the rides.
Best mountain bike trails around Medicine Lake
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Luce…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
5.0
(4)
117
riders
23.4km
01:33
160m
160m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
74
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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5.0
(1)
55
riders
11.5km
00:51
90m
90m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
19
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
6
riders
27.8km
01:35
140m
140m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Tips from the Community
Part of Theodore Wirth Park, The Trailhead is a hub for outdoor recreation in the community. Here, you'll find ski passes and all the essentials for your adventures in the park. There are lockers, a drinking fountain, restrooms, concessions, and equipment rentals.
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This trailhead sits at the junction of Medicine Lake Trail and the Luce Line Regional Trail along the banks of Medicine Lake. The trailhead offers parking, beachside amenities, restrooms, and drinking fountains.
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The Luce Line Trail stretches 76.7 miles across Carver, Hennepin, McLeod, and Meeker counties, connecting rural Minnesota with urban Minneapolis. This rail trail has different surfaces along the way, including asphalt, crushed stone, and grass, and is open to biking, walking, running, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The trail passes through wetlands, wooded areas, lakes, and prairie remnants, with highlights like Otter Lake and Medicine Lake. The trail connects with other regional paths and provides scenic views, including the Minneapolis skyline. The Luce Line follows a former rail corridor with a rich history dating back to the early 1900s.
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Please note that those two squiggly knots within Wirth Park are single track mountain bike trails and not suitable for road bikes (as I learned earlier this week as I found myself tangled in a large swarm of kids taking part in a mountain biking class on the trail and hurriedly trying to backtrack out of there). Luce Line Trail can be used to bypass those parts to the west if you weren't intending to mountain bike!
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This trail spans over 63 miles, connecting the urban and rural areas of the town. This section, running through Theodore Wirth Park, maintains a relatively flat terrain, offering beautiful greenery, especially during the fall when the leaves change color.
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The trailhead for 12 miles of good quality singletrack trails. The trails can be used in the winter on fat bikes too.
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The name Bryn Mawr means "great hill" in Welsh, and was officially designated as such in 1911. The park provides playing fields, walking paths, a picnic area, and a pleasant view of the city's skyline.
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Sweeney Lake is a popular recreational lake often used by visitors for fishing, boating, and relaxing. Sweeney Lake has an average depth of 12 feet and a maximum depth of 25 feet. It's important to note that the lake may not always be suitable for swimming or wading under certain conditions and to always check online before getting in.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Medicine Lake?
There are approximately 30 mountain bike trails available for exploration around Medicine Lake on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Medicine Lake?
The trails around Medicine Lake offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find urban greenways, natural lakefront paths, and routes along former railroad corridors. Many trails pass through extensive wooded areas, and some sections, particularly along the Medicine Lake Regional Trail, feature rolling hills, providing a dynamic ride.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Medicine Lake offers several easy mountain bike trails. For a family-friendly option, consider the Theodore Wirth Trailhead loop from Willard-Hay, which is an easy 3.4 km route through parkland. The region's extensive trail system includes many paved paths suitable for all skill levels.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features to look out for along the trails?
Medicine Lake itself is a major scenic draw, with many trails offering beautiful lake views. You can also visit West Medicine Lake Park Beach, which provides public waterfront access and picnicking areas. The Midtown Greenway and Luce Line Trail Wooden Bridge are notable features along some routes, and many trails wind through extensive wooded areas, offering a natural escape.
Are there mountain bike trails that form a loop around Medicine Lake?
Yes, the interconnected trail system around Medicine Lake includes several loop options. For example, the Luce Line Regional Trail – 45 North Trail loop from Spring Pond is a moderate 11.6 km path that provides scenic views along the lake and through green spaces. The Medicine Lake Regional Trail also connects to other regional trails, allowing for various loop configurations.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking around Medicine Lake?
The warmer months are generally ideal for mountain biking around Medicine Lake, when the trails are clear and the natural surroundings are vibrant. However, the area offers year-round activities, and the extensive trail network can be enjoyed in various seasons, with some trails also suitable for winter activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Can I bring my dog on the mountain bike trails?
Many multi-use trails in the Medicine Lake area, including sections of the Luce Line Trail and Medicine Lake Regional Trail, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check specific park regulations or trail signage for any restrictions, and ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Medicine Lake?
The mountain bike trails around Medicine Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive and interconnected trail systems, the scenic lakefront views, and the blend of urban accessibility with natural, wooded sections that offer a sense of remoteness.
Are there any places to explore or other lakes nearby that I can visit?
Absolutely! The Medicine Lake area is rich with parks and other lakes. Beyond Medicine Lake itself, you can explore Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, and Libbs Lake. These areas often have their own trail systems and offer additional opportunities for outdoor activities.
Are there any moderate mountain bike trails for riders looking for a bit more challenge?
Yes, the Medicine Lake area features several moderate mountain bike trails. A popular choice is the Luce Line Regional Trail – Bryn Mawr Meadows loop from Golden Valley, a 23.4 km route that offers varied terrain through an extensive trail system. Another moderate option is the Mountainbike loop from Schaper Rd, covering 10.5 km with some elevation changes.
Is there parking available near the mountain bike trails?
Yes, the parks and trailheads around Medicine Lake typically offer parking facilities. East Medicine Lake Park and West Medicine Lake Park, for instance, serve as excellent starting points with available parking, providing easy access to the regional trail system.
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